It's Turmeric Time!

Morning and night time are perfect Turmeric times! Turmeric is a spice that goes beyond its flavor enhancing benefits. Curcumin is the main principle curcuminoid - the compound in this spice that gives it yellow color and its incredible health benefits. Curcumin inhibits brain plaque accumulation and reduces inflammation related to Alzheimer's disease. Raw turmeric is preferred to powder, only because a percentage of the curcumin dissipates in the heating process.

Recent studies have concluded what Indian Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine have known for years - Turmeric reduces inflammation and has an anti-arthritic effect. Turmeric also aids in digestion by helping the gallbladder produce more bile. Turmeric is high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds and contains manganese and iron.

The best way to start with Turmeric is with a morning tea and the best way to end your day is with Turmeric milk. Find the easy recipes below. Add this spice to your cooking recipes as well!

Quality is important here and many local health food stores carry high quality raw and powdered turmeric. You can also find Turmeric powder boosts for drinks and packaged turmeric teas.

Turmeric Tea

1 juiced lemon - helps to detox the liver and improve digestion.

1/2 tsp turmeric powder or 1 inch grated or sliced fresh turmeric

1/8 - 1/4 tsp black peppercorn (grind) Peppercorn enhances the absorption of curcumin

1 cup hot water

Optional: Add 1/2 juiced lime - limes increase ant-inflammatory benefits, detox the liver and improve digestion.

Add honey to taste. Continue to stir - turmeric tends to accumulate on the bottom of the cup.

Turmeric Milk

2 cups Almond milk

1 tablespoon coconut oil - optional

1 teaspoon ground turmeric powder or 1 inch grated or sliced fresh turmeric

pinch of black pepper

cinnamon and honey to taste

Bring the ingredients to a boil and let simmer for 20 minutes.

Turmeric at bedtime sets the stage for a healthy night of restful sleep while enhancing your digestion.